Sunderland are reportedly keen to re-sign Grant Leadbitter from Championship rivals Middlesbrough.
The 31-year-old is likely to find game time hard to come by under manager Garry Monk this term and may be keen on the move, according to the Sunderland Echo.
Leadbitter, who started his career at Sunderland before leaving the North-East to join Ipswich Town in 2009, has one year remaining on his Boro contract.
The midfielder has made 170 appearances for the Teessiders since they signed him on a free transfer from the Tractor Boys five years ago.
Meanwhile, Sunderland are also said to be keen to boost their striking options by securing a loan deal for Aston Villa's Ross McCormack.